Why not! Sounds like a good use for them to me.

I would!! I don't like for my runners to be thick - I put batting in one I made for my hallway and I have to be careful what I set on it so it doesn't fall over.

You don't have that problem with thinner ones - so now I just use muslin for the backing - no batting. Polyester - treated - perfect to me lol!!!!
Rosa

Recycle, recycle, recycle ,,,,,, sounds good to me!

SharonG/FL

You've convinced me...I'll give it a try. Thanks so much!
V.

I think that is a wonderful idea!
Linda OH

Sounds like a plan to me. Go for it.

fantastic idea....now I know what will be on the back of my next table runner or placemat.
Thanks for sharing

I agree-good idea. I would preshrink the fabrics for the top and use a very light poly batting if you are going to use any batting. This way, you should have no shrinkage since you are using the poly tablecloths for the backing.

The table cloths would make good placemats as well.
Thanks!

I often use poly/cotton for backings. The only real contraindication is that is can be harder to hand-quilt, but it's not bad says me who has done it often. A machine cuts right through it like butter. It's also sometimes softer against baby skin if you are doing throws for kids- so many of my kid's quilts are backed in recycled bedsheets. It gives you such a great diverity in pattern and can be had in super-wide widths. Go for it.

Never thought of placements...(duh), what a great idea! I think I'll try that with the other old table cloth.

I'm not a handquilter so that will not be an issue. I have saved a few old bedsheets thinking that would work for a backing...like the idea for kids or a pet quilt. (Two small dogs in the house and I need to make them their own quilt...they want to use the people quilts...go figure).

thanks all for the ideas!
V.

Whatever works,good way to use up odds and ends.

In my place mats and runners i only use pellon fleece,or a piece of thin cotton batting that has already been washed before.
Kathi

PS,Hi everyone havn't been over here for awhile.

Great idea, Val! Very clever!

(Hi Kathi! I haven't posted for a while either. It's nice to come back and see so many quilting friends!)

Kate

I made a light quilt and used a price of a flannel sheet for batting and an old duvet cover for backing. I've used polyester too for backing.